15 Shocking Facts About Window Repairs That You Never Knew

UPVC Window Repairs

Upvc windows are able to reduce heating costs and are energy efficient. However, as they age, issues can develop that require repair. This could be due to damaged hinges, handles or locks.

Wooden window repair is relatively straightforward for DIY enthusiasts to tackle themselves. It's cheaper than buying a new window.

Cracks

Cracks and fractures can pose a serious problem. Windows that are not repaired can lead to water intrusion, less effective barriers to cold weather, and can cause structural damage. Find a local builder who specializes in the repair of upvc window repair near me frames. They must have the necessary skills, experience and equipment to achieve the best results. This will ensure that your crack is repaired before it worsens and that you don't need to replace your window glass or window unit.

Small cracks in glass can be fixed by using a variety of DIY solutions. Superglue and masking tape are two of the most popular solutions to hold glass damaged in place for a brief period of time. For deeper cracks the tape may have to extend beyond the crack on both sides for optimal results.

You can also make use of two-part epoxy to fix broken or cracked glasses. Most hardware stores sell this product for around $10. Make sure your work area is properly prepared prior to mixing the epoxy. Also, make sure you have all the tools necessary for the job.

If your upper or lower sash is hard to raise it's because the cords that connect the sash weights have become damaged. This is a simple fix that can be accomplished with a ladder and flathead screwdriver. Replacing a drip cap that has rot is a second repair that can be done at home. Many home centers stock a rot-free drip cap that can be easily nailed or caulked in place. Lastly, if you have a double or triple-pane window, make sure to check that one of the panes isn't broken. This is because the gasses that are leaking out between the panes contribute to improving energy efficiency and should be kept and not released.

Water Leaks

If your uPVC window is leaking, it can cause damage to your home and cause costly repairs. Water leaks can also weaken the structure of your home and cause mold growth. To minimize the damage, it's essential to address any issues caused by windows that leak as soon as you can.

A damaged sealant around window frames is a common reason for leaks. Silicone caulking will restore the seal to its original condition and stop leakage. It is also essential to look for cracks and gaps in the frame as well in the brick or stone walls surrounding your windows.

A blocked drainage hole or defective flashing are also common causes of leaking windows. It's crucial to make sure the drainage holes are clean and free of obstruction, particularly after a heavy rainstorm. You should also examine the windows' flashing to ensure that it's well-sealed.

It's also crucial to check that your drip cap doesn't have any rot or is missing. A rotten or missing drip cap will allow water to enter the window from above and cause damage to the structure of your home. Replacing the leaky drip cap is not a difficult task. It's as simple as purchasing the new one and nailing it into place.

A professional can also test your windows for watertightness. They can use a special tool to determine the water-tightness of your windows to ensure they meet the industry standards. If your windows fail the test, you will need to replace them. This is a cost-effective repair, but it's worth it for the comfort and security of your family.

Sagging

If your windows don't shut properly it can cause many issues, including drafts, condensation, and an increase in energy costs. It could be a sign that the windows weren't properly fitted at installation or the sealant is no longer effective. Fortunately, there are a few options to fix the issue.

The first step is to prepare an area that has plenty of light to repair your window correctly. Start by laying down newspaper or an old blanket to protect the flooring from any splinters or drips that may fall from windows while you work.

You should also use a white cloth that has been soaked in a solution of water and detergent. This will ensure that you don't leave any color stains on your windows. When you're ready to start working on your uPVC windows, begin by marking where the hinge channel must be located. Unscrew the channel, and then fill the screw holes in the frame using epoxy (for upvc window repair near me frames) or wood filler. Make sure you scrape the filled hole smooth before it sets.

After the holes have been filled, you can put in the hinge channel. Be sure to place it on the window jamb and then drill the new screw holes approximately a quarter-inch from the original locations.

Then, measure the spindle protruding from the underside of your handle. You can request an alternative or bring it to a local hardware store to find a suitable replacement. Then, take the setscrew off the operator shaft. Smooth it down to allow the set screw to lock onto the shaft. Now your uPVC window should shut without difficulty.

Broken Hinges

It will be difficult to open or closing your uPVC windows in the event that the hinges are damaged or aren't working properly. This could cause a security problem and prevent your home from being cool or warm. It's easy to get a new hinge for your uPVC windows. However, it's important to ensure you have the right hinge for your windows.

The hinges have to be identical in size to fit into the frame of the window. The most common hinge for windows made of uPVC are standard 18mm or UPVC 15mm window hinges. There are also specialized kinds of window hinges that are suitable for different types of frames, like wooden frames. Getting the correct type of window hinge for your windows will assist you in avoiding the typical issues that homeowners face with their windows, for example, not closing properly.

Your window hinges could be slack or stiff for a variety of reasons. The hinges may not be tightened enough. You can check this using a screwdriver to locate the friction screw that is at the end of the hinge and loosen it. You can then adjust it by turning it either way.

Call Preston Glass Fix if your UPVC window's hinges aren't functioning correctly. We can offer an immediate fix. Our technicians will inspect the condition of your hinges and offer you suggestions on the best solution. We can replace hinges on windows and retension them. We can also install new locking mechanisms to ensure that your UPVC Windows are secure and safe.

Faulty Locks

UPVC window locks and mechanism are an essential component of your home security, they make it very difficult to open the window without breaking in. It can be a hassle when a lock fails but you don't have to replace the entire window.

Most of the time, it's a small issue that could have been prevented when you had regular maintenance. We recommend that you have your uPVC window cleaned regularly as part of our annual maintenance program to reduce the likelihood of having any issues.

The majority of modern uPVC windows have locks that operate by pushing the handle's nose across a wedge block then turning the handle to close the lock. They are effective in locking the window, however if they are not maintained correctly, over time they may start to fail. We recommend that you lubricate them with WD-40 every couple of times a year.

If you're noticing that your uPVC window isn't opening or closing as quickly as it used to, or if the lock doesn't work properly, there may be an issue with the locking gearboxes in the frame. It can be difficult to access this because it requires the removal of the seals around the frame and the removal of the handle (be careful not to damage these).

A locksmith that specializes in UPVC repair will be able to detect the issue quickly and replace the failed locking mechanism with an exact replacement. This is a fast and easy repair that can save you hundreds of dollars by avoiding the need to buy new windows.